Fireboat No. 1 – Port Defiance Ferry Terminal loop from Ruston
Fireboat No. 1 – Port Defiance Ferry Terminal loop from Ruston
4.7
(7256)
16,966
runners
Fireboat No. 1 – Port Defiance Ferry Terminal loop from Ruston
01:15
12.1km
60m
Running
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
4.06 km
Fireboat No. 1
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
5.09 km
Dickman Mill Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
5.95 km
Beach
Beach
7.25 km
Harbor Lights Restaurant
Highlight • Restaurant
Tip by
7.58 km
Ruston Way
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
11.6 km
Raptor Overlook – View of Commencement Bay and Marina
Highlight • Viewpoint
12.1 km
Port Defiance Ferry Terminal
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
12.1 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.7 km
219 m
176 m
Surfaces
8.81 km
2.13 km
906 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 23 June
33°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a highly accessible and scenic waterfront jog in Tacoma, the Fireboat No. 1 – Port Defiance Ferry Terminal loop from Ruston is an excellent choice. This moderate 7.5-mile (12.1 km) jogging route, with a gentle 180 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it perfect for a refreshing workout with high scenic payoff. It's an ideal route for anyone seeking continuous Puget Sound views without a strenuous climb.
What to expect on Fireboat No. 1 – Port Defiance Ferry Terminal loop from Ruston
This loop offers a dynamic journey along the Tacoma waterfront, starting on the mostly flat, paved Ruston Way Path. You'll pass sandy beaches and waterfront parks like Jack Hyde Park, all while enjoying expansive views of Commencement Bay and Puget Sound. Keep an eye out for the iconic Fireboat No. 1, a National Historic Landmark, near Les Davis Pier. As you continue, the route seamlessly transitions onto the Waterwalk at Point Ruston, leading you towards Point Defiance Park, where the scenery can shift to include glimpses of dense forests and additional viewpoints. The terrain is predominantly paved, making it suitable for all skill levels, though the overall distance and slight elevation changes contribute to its moderate rating.
Planning your visit
The Fireboat No. 1 – Port Defiance Ferry Terminal loop is highly accessible, with numerous access points and ample parking available along Ruston Way and in Point Ruston. You'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and water fountains along the route, ensuring a comfortable experience. After your jog, consider stopping at one of the many restaurants or cafes in Ruston Way or Point Ruston for refreshments. This popular route is enjoyable year-round, but clear days offer the best chance to see Mount Rainier in the distance.
Trail details
- Distance: 7.5 miles (12.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 180 feet (55 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 15 minutes
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